Social Media Rewinds Stogie T’s 2016 KOTD Rap Battle With Ruthless Reviews. South African rap legend Stogie T’s 2016 King of the Dot (KOTD) rap battle in Canada, where he faced off against Canadian rap heavyweight Saurus, has become a heated topic across social media platforms.
A throwback to the battle, which saw Stogie T bring his lyrical prowess to the Canadian stage, has sparked a flood of debate among fans and critics alike. While many still hail his battle as a display of skill and wordplay, others have critiqued the moments where the rapper struggled to maintain his flow and punchlines, with some labelling his performance as “choked.”
In one of the most memorable moments of the battle, Stogie T, a highly respected figure in the South African hip-hop scene, seemed to falter midway through his rap. The normally fluid and precise lyricist stumbled, losing his rhythm and leaving his verse hanging in the air. The dreaded “choke” — a term used in battle rap when an artist forgets their lines — was evident, and some fans quickly seized the opportunity to criticize the rapper for not living up to the expectations set by his usual performances.
But was this moment a reflection of Stogie T’s talent, or just a rare misstep? His ability to deliver complex and insightful lines with dense wordplay was undeniably evident throughout much of his battle. However, fans and critics on social media are particularly vocal about one aspect: Stogie T’s use of intricate English vocabulary.
Some believe that while Stogie’s mastery of complex lyricism is admirable, it also led to a disconnect with the Canadian audience. A few pointed out that his extensive use of big English words in the heat of the battle may have gone over the heads of some listeners, undermining his intended impact. “Bro always wana sound deep and that’s just ain’t him, Tumi be yourself man and write simple bars,” one fan wrote.
Though the criticisms are valid in the eyes of some, many fans came to Stogie T’s defence. The rapper’s performance was still lauded for its authenticity, technical ability, and raw energy. “Yeah but you should watch the ones with Ness Lee, and Bender, there’s another one on Scrambles For Money. You’ll see that he’s still very much a GOAT. Was just finding his footing that’s all,” wrote one follower.
The battle against Saurus, one of Canada’s finest battle rappers, was undoubtedly a high-stakes moment for Stogie T, pitting him against a seasoned veteran on foreign soil. Despite the hiccup in his flow and some of the criticisms about his delivery, Stogie T’s appearance at KOTD remains an important chapter in his career. His willingness to step into the international arena, and showcase his skills on such a prestigious platform, solidified his position as one of the top talents to ever come from South Africa.
For those following Stogie T’s journey, this battle serves as a reminder that even the best are vulnerable to moments of imperfection. The social media reactions prove that no matter how great a rapper is, they will always face scrutiny — but they will also find supporters who appreciate their craft. And for Stogie T, that means his legacy as a rapper will continue to evolve, even in the face of chokes and criticism.
